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IES is Gearing Up for MFG DAY on October 2

It can be hard for people to think of manufacturing as anything beyond noisy, dirty, and potentially low-skilled work. National MFG DAY, organized in North Carolina by IES, addresses common misperceptions like these by giving manufacturers across the country the opportunity to open their doors and show the public, including STEM educators and students, what modern manufacturing is really all about. By participating in this collaborative effort and connecting with future generations of manufacturers, IES is also taking big steps toward helping to solve the growing problem of the skilled labor gap.

In 2014, our flagship celebration was held at the Durham manufacturing facility of GE Aviation’s Engine Division. Every year, the facility manufactures 2000 engines used in the world’s largest commercial aircraft. Students from Durham area schools were treated to tours of the facility, which is usually closed to the public. More than 50 other organizations across the state participated in Manufacturing Day celebrations by hosting their own tours and open houses.

This year, we expect even more manufacturers to collaborate with us in making MFG Day 2015 the best celebration yet. Details about this year’s big event are soon to follow, so stay tuned.

Participating manufacturers invariably report that they have a great experience answering questions about how their products are made and distributed to people who are often getting their first behind-the-scenes look at a modern manufacturing facility.

It is easy to host an open house; just sign up and take advantage of the free, downloadable MFG Day resources that will show you how to make the most out of your event.